ALOR SETAR: The Home Ministry is considering introducing a special pass for international sailors to address limitations under the current social visit pass.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the existing duration of 30 or 90 days does not align with the time required for yacht maintenance or repairs, which is a common issue faced by international sailors.
"If they are given a standard social visit pass but their yachts require longer maintenance, the pass may expire and create difficulties. We are looking at the possibility of introducing a specific pass to facilitate this, and I am inclined towards that.
"I will discuss this with the Immigration director-general and, if necessary, seek advice from the Attorney General to determine which provisions or regulations can be applied,” he said.
He said this in a statement after visiting Teluk Ewa and Telaga Harbour as part of a two-day working visit and operational monitoring of border control in Langkawi, which began on Friday (April 24).
Saifuddin Nasution said sailors are among high-value tourists with significantly higher spending power compared with other visitor groups, generating wider economic benefits across sectors.
"For example, Chinese tourists spend about RM7,000 in Langkawi, while visitors from West Asia spend around RM11,000. However, sailors spend far more, reaching up to seven-figure amounts.
"They can be considered Grade A tourists, with high spending that delivers economic benefits felt even at the grassroots level. So we will look at ways to make things easier for them,” he said.
Meanwhile, he said one of the key agencies under the Home Ministry in Langkawi is the Immigration Department, which plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations at entry points.
"When our service delivery is efficient and fast, it becomes an attraction in itself, as tourists do not face difficulties in handling their matters. Most tourists I met also expressed satisfaction with the services provided by the Immigration Department,” he said. - Bernama
